Recipes > Appetizer

Fried Calamari with Cajun Lemon Aioli

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

Servings

4-6 people

This crispy fried calamari by @NachoCookin gets a bold Cajun twist with Tony Chachere’s Original Creole Seasoning. Lightly breaded and fried to perfection, each bite delivers crunch, flavor, and a hint of heat. Served with a creamy Cajun lemon aioli, this easy seafood recipe is perfect for appetizers, game day, or any Southern-inspired spread.

Fried Calamari with Cajun Lemon Aioli

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Ingredients

  • For the Calamari: 

  • 2 lbs calamari (rings and tentacles, cleaned)

  • 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • 2 1/2 tsp Tony Chachere’s Original Creole Seasoning

  • oil or beef tallow for frying

  • lemon wedges for serving

  • For the Aioli: 

  • 1/2 cup mayo

  • 1 1/2 tsp Tony Chachere’s Original Creole Seasoning

  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard

  • 1 small clove garlic, grated

  • 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)

  • Clear

Directions

For the Calamari: 

  1. Pat the calamari very dry.
  2. (Optional) Soak in buttermilk for 30–60 minutes, then drain well.
  3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and Tony Chachere’s.
  4. Bring oil or tallow to 375°F.
  5. Toss calamari in the flour mixture right before frying. Shake off excess.
  6. Cook in small batches for 45–60 seconds, until light golden.
  7. Remove to a paper towel or rack. Lightly

For the Aioli:

  1. Mix everything together until smooth.
  2. Let sit for 10–15 minutes before serving.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning or lemon as needed.

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